Sigs Honored at 2024 SW Florida Delta Delta Luncheon

Over 50 Sigs and their Sweethearts attended that annual SW Florida luncheon held at the Club on the Strand in Naples, Florida on February 8, 2024. Hosted by Bernie Sergesketter ’58 and Eric Morgan ’95 this gathering continues to grow.

Significant Sigs Honored

Eric Morgan ’95 (L) receives his Significant Sig award from Past Grand Consul Dennis Santoli.

On this occasion two Significant Sigs were recognized and another brother was presented Delta Delta’s Ben Taylor award.

Past Grand Consul Dennis Santoli presented Eric Morgan ’95 with his Significant Sig award. Eric was recognized for his business success and philanthropy. Eric’s complete list of accomplishments can be found at Eric Morgan, Significant Sig.

Sigma Chi’s Executive Secretary Eric Church was on hand to present Don Fesko ’94 with his Significant Sig certificate and medal. Brother Church described Don’s exceptional accomplishments in providing healthcare services in northwest Indiana. Don’s full award bio can be seen at Don Fesko, Significant Sig.

Ben Taylor Award Recipient

The surprise event of the luncheon was awarding Gavin Philipps ’95 with Delta Delta’s Ben Taylor Award for his exceptional commitment in leading our chapter’s revitalization efforts. Phil Steele ’77 spoke of Gavin’s timely engagement in working with the undergraduates and alumni that led to significant changes within the chapter. Phil remarked, “Gavin’s determination, enthusiasm and resolve have pushed the chapter’s revitalization effort forward to a point where all the requirements of the university and national Fraternity have been met. Our journey continues, but without Gavin’s extraordinary commitment of time and energy, we certainly would not be where we are today.”

Don Fesko ’94 is presented his Significant Sig award from Sigma Chi’s Executive Secretary Eric Church.

Chapter Revitalization Update

Following the award presentations, Gavin Philipps ’95, Consul Mitchell Rittman ’26, and past Consul David Kolssak ’25 updated the alumni and guests on the progress of the chapter’s revitalization efforts. Highlights included Sigma Chi taking a strong pledge class of 20 brothers, and having the largest GPA improvement and most philanthropy dollars raised of any of the other Greek organizations. Delta Delta brothers have recently been elected as President of IFC and now hold positions at all levels within IFC. And on December 9^th, the brothers held Blue Formal for the first time in four years.

Alumni Support Commended

Knowing that the chapter would experience low occupancy this year and next, alumni have been asked to up their annual fund contributions to provide additional financial support to the chapter. At this time over $77,000 has been given toward the revitalization efforts. One of the unique stories was how one alumnus, after having a random conversation with a father of one of the brothers in the house, rallied his pledge brothers to contribute $8500 to the chapter to cover the expenses for Blue Formal.

Gavin Philipps ’95 (center) was honored with Delta Delta’s Ben Taylor Award by Phil Steele ’77 (left) and Scott Hutton ’94.

Brandon Cutler, Purdue’s Director of Greek Services, stated that he has never seen the level of alumni support and engagement he has experienced with our chapter. It has been through our alumni efforts that our younger brothers are learning about what is expected of a Delta Delta Sigma Chi.

Plans Announced for 150^th Delta Delta Anniversary Celebration

Jeff McKean ’86 spoke briefly of the initial plans for Delta Delta to hold a 150^th Anniversary Celebration on June 12-15, 2025. This event is expected to draw over 500 Sigma Chi alumni back to Purdue. More details will be forthcoming.

Event Ends on a High Note

Prior to the closing of the luncheon and the brothers heading for the golf course, all the Sweethearts present were serenaded with the Sweetheart of Sigma Chi and a rousing rendition of My Name is Sigma Chi Sir.

To get a more complete look at the luncheon view our video at 2024 Delta Delta Alumni Luncheon.